Bethlehem University marked the arrival of Christmas with a solemn Midnight Mass at the Chapel of the Divine Child, an event filled with joy, reflection, and spiritual renewal. The Mass was presided over by His Excellency Archbishop Adolfo Tito Yllana, Chancellor of Bethlehem University and Apostolic Delegate to Jerusalem and Palestine.

In his heartfelt Christmas homily, Archbishop Yllana shared his joy in being part of the celebration, saying, “I am delighted to be here to share the Eucharistic celebrations with you. It is right that your university, facing such great challenges, should feel the closeness of the Holy See and the Holy Father. Pope St. Paul VI intended for his historic visit to the Holy Land in 1964 to leave behind seeds of hope. The education and professional formation of the new generation is precisely such a precious and essential seed that can help the young people of this land build a better future. Let us be guided by the beauty of this night, loaded with light, a sign of heavenly blessing and salvation.”

The message of hope resonated deeply with all attendees, as Archbishop Yllana reminded the community that the birth of Jesus represents the ultimate triumph of light over darkness.

Vice Chancellor Brother Hernán Santos, in his concluding remarks, extended warm Christmas wishes to all. He said, “Dear brothers and sisters, welcome to our Christmas Mass here in Bethlehem. We gather tonight in the place where Jesus was born, bringing with us our joys, our worries, and our hopes. As a university community—students, faculty, staff, families, and friends—we come together to celebrate the great gift of Christmas: God choosing to be close to us. In the quiet birth of Jesus, we are reminded that God enters our world with love, humility, and compassion.”

Brother Hernan continued, “Tonight, Christmas speaks to us about hope. Not a hope that ignores our struggles, but a hope that is born in the middle of them. The child of Bethlehem tells us that light can still shine in darkness, that love is stronger than fear, and that peace is always possible. As we begin this Mass, may our hearts be open, our faith renewed, and may we leave this place ready to carry that hope to our university, our society, and our world.”

After the Mass, the community gathered for a special Christmas reception at the De La Salle Hall. The gathering allowed guests to exchange greetings, share festive moments, and embrace the spirit of joy and unity that Christmas brings.